New U.S. Labor Rule Enhances Protections for Temporary Farmworkers

The Department of Labor introduces comprehensive measures to improve safety, transparency, and advocacy rights for H-2A visa agricultural workers.

The rule targets abuses under the H-2A program, ensuring fair treatment and safety for temporary farmworkers.
Key provisions include anti-retaliation measures, improved transportation safety, and enhanced transparency in worker recruitment.
Workers can now engage in self-advocacy without fear of employer retaliation, including the right to decline participation in employer-organized meetings.
New requirements mandate that employers provide seat belts in transportation vehicles and disclose recruitment agreements.
The rule is set to take effect on June 28, 2024, with provisions applying to all applications filed on or after August 29, 2024.